Make Scrumptious Grape Jelly Meatballs Recipe Tonight

Juicy grape jelly meatballs dance with sweet and tangy flavors that surprise every hungry palate.

Culinary magic happens when unexpected ingredients create something deliciously unexpected.

Tender beef mingles with fruity preserve goodness in a classic comfort dish.

Comfort food meets playful innovation through this simple yet remarkable recipe.

Quick preparation means you can whip up these crowd-pleasing bites in minutes.

Succulent meatballs bathed in glossy sauce promise to become your new favorite party snack.

We promise these irresistible morsels will have everyone asking for seconds.

Great Pairings with Jelly Meatballs

• Pair Zesty Red Wine: Select a bold, fruity red like Zinfandel or Merlot that complements the sweet and tangy meatball sauce, balancing the grape jelly's sweetness with wine's robust flavor.
• Create Crisp Coleslaw Side: Prepare a tangy, crunchy coleslaw with vinegar-based dressing to cut through the rich, sweet meatball sauce and provide a refreshing contrast.
• Serve Garlic Bread Companions: Toast crusty garlic bread or dinner rolls to soak up the delicious grape jelly barbecue sauce, adding a savory and aromatic element to the dish.
• Match Sparkling Apple Cider: Opt for a chilled sparkling apple cider that echoes the fruity grape jelly notes while offering a light, effervescent counterpoint to the hearty meatballs.

Flavor Combos for Jelly Meatballs

• Vegetarian Meatball Alternative: Replace frozen meatballs with plant-based meatballs made from lentils, mushrooms, or soy protein for a meat-free version.
• Spicy Kick Variation: Add sriracha or red pepper flakes to the sauce for extra heat and depth of flavor.
• Gluten-Free Option: Use gluten-free barbecue sauce and ensure meatballs are gluten-free to accommodate dietary restrictions.
• Low-Sugar Adaptation: Swap grape jelly for sugar-free grape spread or reduce sauce sweetness by mixing with sugar-free ketchup.

FAQs

• Are grape jelly and barbecue sauce the only ingredients needed for the sauce?

Yes, just grape jelly and barbecue sauce are combined to create the sweet and tangy sauce for these meatballs.

• Can I use homemade meatballs instead of frozen?

Absolutely! Homemade or pre-cooked meatballs work perfectly in this recipe. Just ensure they’re fully cooked before adding the sauce.

• Is this recipe good for potlucks or parties?

Yes, these meatballs are a crowd-pleaser and easy to transport in a slow cooker, making them ideal for gatherings and potlucks.

• Do I need to thaw frozen meatballs before cooking?

No, you can add frozen meatballs directly to the slow cooker, stovetop, or oven. They’ll heat through and absorb the sauce while cooking.

Why Grape Jelly Meatballs Are So Fun

• Requires minimal ingredients and preparation, making it perfect for busy cooks who want a delicious meal without complex techniques.
• Offers a sweet and tangy flavor combination that appeals to both kids and adults, transforming simple meatballs into a party-favorite dish.
• Provides flexibility with multiple cooking options like slow cooker, stovetop, and oven, allowing you to choose the most convenient approach for your kitchen setup.
• Creates a crowd-pleasing appetizer or main course that's guaranteed to impress guests at potlucks, game days, or family gatherings with its irresistible taste.

Ingredients in Sweet and Savory Meatballs

• Frozen Meatballs: Classic protein option for an easy meal.

• Grape Jelly, Barbecue Sauce: Sweet and tangy combination for coating meatballs.

• Chopped Parsley: Fresh herb for added color and light flavor.

How to Make Grape Jelly Glazed Meatballs

Step 1: Unwrap Frozen Meatballs

Transfer the frozen meatballs into your preferred cooking vessel such as a slow cooker, large saucepan, or baking dish.

Make sure the meatballs are spread out evenly across the surface.

Step 2: Whip Up the Tangy Glaze

In a mixing bowl, combine the grape jelly and barbecue sauce.

Whisk these ingredients together until they form a smooth, well-blended sauce with no lumps.

The combination creates a sweet and smoky flavor profile.

Step 3: Coat the Meatballs

Pour the prepared sauce over the meatballs, gently stirring to ensure each meatball is completely covered with the glossy mixture.

This helps develop a rich, even coating that will infuse delicious flavor throughout cooking.

Step 4: Select Your Cooking Method

• Cover the slow cooker
• Cook on low setting for 4-6 hours
• Alternatively, use high setting for 2-3 hours

• Simmer over medium-low heat
• Stir occasionally
• Cook for 20-25 minutes

• Preheat to 350°F
• Cover dish with aluminum foil
• Bake for 25-30 minutes

Step 5: Serve and Enjoy

Give the meatballs a final stir to redistribute the sauce.

Transfer to a serving platter and sprinkle with freshly chopped parsley for a pop of color and added freshness.

Enjoy these delectable meatballs as an appetizer or main course.

Pro Tips for Flavor-Packed Meatballs

• Experiment with different barbecue sauce flavors like honey, spicy, or smoky to create unique taste profiles.
• Use sugar-free grape jelly or replace half the jelly with sugar-free preserves for a lighter version.
• Stir meatballs occasionally during cooking to ensure even sauce coating and prevent sticking.
• Substitute frozen meatballs with homemade beef, turkey, or plant-based meatballs to suit dietary preferences.
• Serve over rice, pasta, or as appetizers with toothpicks for easy party snacking.

Store and Reheat Grape Jelly Meatballs Right

• Store leftover meatballs in an airtight container for up to 3-4 days, keeping sauce and meatballs together to maintain moisture and flavor.
• Pack cooled meatballs in freezer-safe containers or heavy-duty freezer bags, removing excess air to prevent freezer burn. Will stay fresh for 2-3 months.
• Place meatballs in a microwave-safe dish, cover with a damp paper towel, and heat in 30-second intervals, stirring between each to ensure even warming. Check internal temperature reaches 165°F for food safety.
• Warm meatballs in a skillet over medium-low heat, adding a splash of water or extra sauce to prevent drying. Stir gently and frequently until heated through, approximately 5-7 minutes.

Grape Jelly Meatballs Recipe

---

5 Stars 4 Stars 3 Stars 2 Stars 1 Star

4.9 from 13 reviews

• Total Time: 4 hours 10 minutes
• Yield: 12 1x

Print Recipe

Pin Recipe

Description

Hearty grape jelly meatballs combine sweet and savory flavors in a crowd-pleasing dish that delights dinner guests. Succulent beef meatballs glazed with tangy grape jelly create an irresistible comfort meal you’ll crave again and again.

---

Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

Main Ingredients:

• 2 pounds frozen meatballs (beef, turkey, or chicken)
• 1 cup grape jelly
• 1 1/2 cups barbecue sauce

Cook Mode Prevent your screen from going dark

---

Instructions

1. Transfer frozen meatballs into a slow cooker, ensuring they are spread evenly across the bottom.
2. Create a glossy sauce by thoroughly whisking grape jelly and barbecue sauce until completely blended and no lumps remain.
3. Generously drench meatballs with the prepared sauce, gently rotating the cooking vessel to ensure comprehensive coating.
4. For slow cooker method, seal lid and maintain low temperature setting for 4-6 hours, allowing flavors to meld and meatballs to become tender.
5. Alternatively, for stovetop preparation, simmer the sauced meatballs over medium-low heat for approximately 25 minutes, periodically stirring to prevent sticking and ensure uniform heating.
6. Oven technique involves covering the meatball mixture with aluminum foil and baking at 350°F for 30 minutes, creating a rich, glossy finish.
7. Once cooking is complete, delicately stir the meatballs to redistribute the sauce and guarantee each piece is thoroughly coated.
8. Present the meatballs piping hot, optionally garnishing with finely chopped fresh parsley for an elegant touch and added visual appeal.

Notes

• Choose high-quality grape jelly with real fruit for a richer, more authentic flavor profile that elevates the entire dish.
• Opt for lean meatballs to reduce excess grease and create a cleaner, more balanced sauce consistency.
• For gluten-free adaptation, use gluten-free barbecue sauce and confirm meatball ingredients are wheat-free.

• Prep Time: 10 minutes
• Cook Time: 4 hours (also depending on method)
• Category: Appetizer, Dinner, Snacks
• Method: Slow Cooking
• Cuisine: American

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 12
• Calories: 120
• Sugar: 10g
• Sodium: 400mg
• Fat: 5g
• Saturated Fat: 2g
• Unsaturated Fat: 3g
• Trans Fat: 0g
• Carbohydrates: 14g
• Fiber: 0g
• Protein: 4g
• Cholesterol: 20mg